Device for causing turbulent flow in a tank assembly

Abstract

Disclosed is a device for causing turbulent flow in a tank assembly that has an internal fluid cell and a fitting for allowing fluid to enter and exit the fluid cell from the exterior of the tank assembly. The device includes a main body portion and first and second retaining arms. The first and second retaining arms extend from the main body portion of the device and are adapted and configured for supporting the device substantially within the fitting of the tank assembly. A plurality of curved vane elements extend from the main body portion which cause turbulent flow in the fluid cell of the tank assembly by redirecting fluid entering the tank assembly axially through the fitting in a non-axial direction into the fluid cell.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The subject invention is directed to a device for causing turbulent flow in a tank assembly, and more particularly to, a device associated with a tank's fluid inlet which creates turbulent flow within the tank, a still more particularly to, a device for use with a tank assembly, such as a well tank, which includes a plurality of vane elements that alter the direction of fluid flow entering the tank so as to cause turbulent flow within the tank.[0003]2. Description of the Related Art[0004]Water systems that provide and distribute well water domestically in rural parts of the country typically include a pump to draw water from the well; pipes or other conduits through which water travels; and a tank for storing water, e.g., a well tank. Well tanks, e.g., expansion tanks, are structured and arranged to store water until demanded and to accommodate internal pressures of the system. To this end, well tanks typically provide ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is a device for causing turbulent flow in a tank assembly with an internal fluid cell. The device includes a main body portion with a top surface, a bottom surface, and radially opposed lateral side walls. It also includes two retaining arms that can flex radially inward to allow the device to be inserted into the tank assembly. The device includes a plurality of vane elements that are curved and extend from the lateral side walls of the main body portion. The vane elements create turbulent flow in the fluid cell by redirecting fluid entering the tank assembly in a non-axial direction. The device can be used in a tank assembly with an outer housing, an inner liner, and a diaphragm.

Problems solved by technology

In any closed system containing air and water that undergoes natural or artificial temperature changes, the likelihood of problems stemming from interaction of air and water is great.

Pressure pumps and surge chambers increase the cost of a water system.

A disadvantage associated with conventional tank assemblies, such as the one disclosed in Lane, is that sediment builds up in the tank over time and ultimately degrades the tank.

An additional problem encountered in some conventional tank assemblies is that pockets of stagnant water develop within the fluid cell, resulting in the water becoming stale.

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